JFK-LBJ

Election of 1960

After World War II, the United States entered a period dominated by conservative ideology.  After the instability of the Great Depression and World War II as well as 20 years of Democratic politics (1932 - 1952), the country shifted toward conservative ideals which guided the country in the 1950s.  As the 1960s approached, growing inequality in the country started to emerge from the Civil Rights movement in the south as well as the developing women's rights and Hispanic rights movement.  The country was shifting towards liberal politics which manifests in the election of 1960.   

It was widely believed that Nixon, with is mastery of foreign policy and extensive political experience, would win the election rather easily.  The democratic party in the south was split largely because of Civil Rights and Kennedy had little national experience.  However, two things changed the election:

1. The 1960 election was the first televised election in American history.  Kennedy knew the value of appearance and took time to prepare for debates that would be televised nationally.  

2. Kennedy selected Lyndon B. Johnson to be his Vice President.  He was a Democrat from Texas and represented the south Democratic vote.  This unified the Democratic party.

It was a close election but Kennedy prevailed becoming the youngest President ever elected to the office at age 43.